Maddie Hsia,
Minneapolis, MN
Because of high Covid infection rates, many people are scared to leave their houses. I am also afraid to leave my house, but for a different reason. There has always been discrimination and attacks towards Asians, but the pandemic has intensified them. I hear about stories in the news, on TV, and on social media. A family friend of ours was attacked in NYC just two days after I was in NYC and had to get five stitches on her head. I dread going to unfamiliar, public places. Especially when I am by myself or with my younger sister, I am constantly worried about encountering someone who could potentially attack me. My mom warns me to never let my guard down and to get home as soon as possible. For the rest of my life, I will live with the fear that comes with being Asian.
